Caernarfon

From Imakoopedia

Caernarfon is a good central place for visiting other places in Wales such as the Isle of Anglesy, Bangor, Harlech, and the castle at Beaumaris. In addition, the castle is most impressive and largely restored. Conwy is also nearby, but it's better suited for one or two overnights.

Warning: There's not a whole lot to do in Caernarfon, so you may be disappointed if you plan to spend more than a day. Your best bet is to consider this a base point for visiting other areas of interest in northwest Wales.

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Get In

Driving is perfectly acceptable to get in and out. The roads are good and parking is available behind the castle for a reasonable price. If you miss a turn, just do a turn-a-roundabout and try, try again.

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See

The castle. It's an impressive work began in 1283 by England's Edward I as, essentially, his planned seat of power in his attempt to subjugate Wales. Like Beaumaris, this castle was quite functional, although never 100% completed. Admission: ~£4.50/adult, parking is behind the Castle is extra.

The site of the Roman fort at Sergontium.

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Buy

Shopping isn't all that spectacular in Caernarfon. Tip: Do some shopping here, but for better shopping, head to Conwy.

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Eat

A fair amount of pubs and restaurants exist within and around the old city walls, but hours are odd and without good planning, you could end up hungry and unhappy (and you wouldn't be the first). Still, during normal hours, there's a fair amount of decent places to eat, though nearby Conwy definitely has the upper hand here.

There's a take-out pizza place down the road from the Royal Celt. Good value, good pizza, and vaguely friendly service.

A grocery store is across the street, which is -very- handy.

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Drink

Drinking seems to be the best option for nights in Caernarfon. Quite a few small pubs exist within and around the walls. Don't expect pub meals, though. Most of the establishments seems to offer them only at peak times during the day and week.

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Sleep

The Royal Celt. The best large hotel in Caernarfon's city centre, it's also one of the more expensive establishments. This fills up in the summer months, so make sure you have reservations beforehand, although you may get lucky. This hotel is also a few blocks outside of the old town walls and a short jaunt away from the castle.

There information office across the street from the castle can help find other accommodations.

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